Ibrahima Konate did not feature in Liverpool's last four matches, yet he maintains that he was not 'dropped' by Jurgen Klopp.
Konate is recognized as one of the top defenders globally when in form, but the past season presented challenges to his development.
Plagued by injuries, he found it difficult to maintain peak performance and did not participate in Liverpool's concluding four games, even though he was fit.
In an interview with Le Monde, Konate addressed the notion of a 'demotion' at Liverpool and his preparedness for the Euros. He stated, "'Demotion' is not the appropriate term.
"There were no significant implications in Liverpool's final games. Had there been, my reaction and a discussion with the manager would have followed.
"Nevertheless, I have doubled my efforts in personal training, in addition to my club commitments, to prepare for the Euros. Mentally, I am fully prepared. Physically, I lack some match fitness, but it's not a concern."
Indeed, those last matches held little consequence following Liverpool's downturn in April.
At that time, the consensus was that Jarell Quansah was in superior form and had been the more reliable choice throughout the season.
Persistent minor injuries and muscle issues have hindered Konate's progress since his 2021 move to Liverpool. He acknowledges this yet remains optimistic.
He reflects, "I remind myself that a career is brief and now is not the time for doubt," the 25-year-old expressed.
"At times, while resting, I ponder that without injuries, I could have been at my strongest, perhaps the leading central defender today," he says with a laugh, "but such is the life of a footballer.
"It doesn't deter my advancement; rather, it fortifies my resolve both on the field and in my personal life."
In a revealing conversation with Le Monde, he also expressed his solidarity with the victims of the conflict in Gaza.
